Arrests will not hinder their political drive – Ex-President

Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday said no one could hinder the forward march of the Joint Opposition by arresting his family members and Opposition activists.

“By slinging mud, framing false charges and insults no one can stop us, the former President said.

He likened the incumbent government to a pickpocket.

The ex-President told The Island that the government was doing everything possible to cover up its weaknesses and failures and ever since it came to power was taking its political opponents into custody indiscriminately.

But, the masses knew who the real culprits were, Rajapaksa said.

“The government neglected the issues faced by the masses and keeps attacking and vilifying us,” he said.